Salt Water

Faith

2012-01-07T18:52:00.000-08:00

If you’ve read any of my previous posts, I would hope you’ve read into the fact I am a genuine human being. I care about people and I’ve had some things happen that have really opened my eyes and humbled me.

As a trainer, I get up every day and help people accomplish health and fitness goals. I learn about exercise so our clients can move safely, efficiently, and effectively. I learn about health and nutrition related issues so I can help our clients on their road to optimal health and performance.

My morals and values were shaped by my life experiences, my choices, my upbringing, my mistakes, and my peer group(s). I believe I am a well-intended person who brings a lot of joy into the lives of the people I love or the people who are around me often (like clients in the gym, many of whom I love).

Yesterday, a client gave me one of the best compliments I’ve ever received. He said that he enjoys working out when I am coaching. He said he likes how I always smile and make it a point to greet everyone with excitement and enthusiasm. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t want people to do something wrong and hurt themselves, so I will yell at you or stop whatever you’re doing to change an error, but I view the gym as my second home.

I wanted to demonstrate my character as a person because I occasionally have people approach me for personal advice and my opinion. From what I’ve heard, it’s because these people respect me and the things I’ve gone through. They know they’re going to get as honest of a response as I can give. I constantly work on being direct, because I have grown into disliking when people beat around the bush.

A recent incident frustrated me enough to finally write this post. If you’re reading this, thank you. I needed to get this off of my chest. I also want you to know I don’t intend on being disrespectful to you, so if it comes across that way let me know. This is also meant for some of my family members who I feel have a similar concern.

After offering my two cents to a particular question, I received this as part of the response (broken up into parts to focus on the thanks, appreciation, and respect):

“Okay sounds good. I appreciate it... Thanks again, for everything. Besides your lack of faith in God you are ok, haha. ;) … You are cool though for sure. I don't go to people for advice so obviously I respect you. That's kind of a big deal…”

Yes, I am atheist. And the statement underlined and bolded above offended me.

Why?

Because atheist has managed to become a “bad” word. Because atheist means that I am somehow a “bad” person. Because I feel like I have to hide my beliefs (or lack thereof) to make other people feel comfortable around me when that kind of discrimination doesn’t apply to any “believer.”

In my opinion, God is what people make up in their minds to find comfort in what they don’t know or don’t understand. God does not exist in reality, God exists in your head.

I don’t need that comfort. And I don’t appreciate it when people who do need that comfort think that I would somehow be “better” if I believed what they believed. I think it might be due to the fact they want to see me for what they are and not for what I am. So, if what I believe doesn’t match what they believe, they think I am missing something or, possibly, that I'm not as good as them.

Don’t over-analyze that last sentence. I am not trying to say you consciously think you’re better than me. It could just be the conditioning of your religious point-of-view. Just don’t assume I would be "better" with your faith. I’ve grown into what I believe to be someone many people look up to, trust, and respect.

Some of you will probably read this and look at me differently. Those of you who are genuine and non-judgmental will read this and still love me for me.

And I want to leave you with some food for thought. If a person told you God talked to them, you would likely think they were crazy or schizophrenic (yet the opposite isn't crazy?). Here’s a quote that stands out to me along those lines:

"When one person suffers from a delusion, it is called insanity. When many people suffer from a delusion, it is called religion."

And don’t worry; I will only laugh at your beliefs when you’re not around.

Jeromie

Resolutions

2011-12-29T13:13:00.000-08:00

New Year's resolutions are interesting. They can be motivating and irritating all at the same time.

In the fitness industry, resolutions seem to be motivating... for a month. As a trainer, that is irritating. When I was in grad school, we had a gym owner give a presentation to our cohort. I asked him about a "New Year's rush" and if he was anticipating any growth.

His response?

"I don't want those people."

I couldn't have said it any better myself.

"I'll do it after the holidays" seems to be a common theme. And those are the people that tend to give up after a month because they already lacked any commitment during the holidays when Thanksgiving and Christmas are only two days out of a two month period. You really couldn't eat well and exercise the other 58 days? Or you really want to put off your health for another two months? Why not start right away?

Although it can be frustrating, I also want to see people be successful. So I want to recommend a couple things that I've learned as a trainer.

First: aesthetic goals will drive a person insane. I know, we ALL want to look better with our clothes off. But people really beat themselves up over the smallest, most insignificant things possible. And no, running and running and running is not going to help you reach your goals. Do you think bodybuilders get to under 4% body-fat by running and running and running? No, they change their diet. Diet is 70-80% of your body composition. MORE EXERCISE IS NOT THE ANSWER.

Yes, I am a trainer, and yes I really said that. SMART EXERCISE IS THE ANSWER.
If your sleep patterns are good (8-9 hours a night), you have no unhealthy addictions (cigarettes, drugs, alcohol) and you are eating real, whole foods, then it is wise to check up on your exercise habits. Which brings me to the goals you should have: performance goals.

Performance goals are going to be better than aesthetic goals. For example, I want to be able to do the splits, I want to deadlift 500 pounds, I want to back squat 350 pounds (or 400 if my next 1-rep-max takes a huge jump), I want to do a 100 pound weighted chin-up, and I want to shoulder press my bodyweight.

So ask yourself, what is my back squat? can I do a push-up? Can I do a pull-up? What about a handstand? Can I plank for 2 minutes? How is my flexibility?

When you have nailed your sleep patterns and the food choices you make, along with eliminating the unhealthy influences in your life, you can start asking yourself about your performance and how to reach those goals. Then work for them. You didn't get to where you are overnight, so if you're looking for something to transform you overnight, I can't help you.

By reaching your performance goals, and by getting stronger, you will walk by a mirror one day and go "Damn! When did I get so hot?" which is a lot healthier than beating yourself up over any aesthetic goals you might have.

I also need to bring up weight loss. Weight loss is a poorly used term with the scale being a double-edged sword. When you have a lot of weight to lose, the scale can be very motivating. When you start to get to that last 10-20 pounds, it can be extremely deflating. Why? Because the scale doesn't say the number you want it to say. The result? You do more and more exercise hoping the scale will move.

This logic is stupid (sorry).

If the scale does move, it's safe to say that your mid-section is probably still soft. Cortisol and muscle breakdown are two of the issues in this situation. The weight that is lost comes from muscle while cortisol is keeping you soft, especially in the mid-section. No, you can't spot check and doing crunches is not going to tone your stomach. But your abs will be strong under that muffin top (insert sarcasm).

Instead of weight loss, choose fat loss as a goal. Strength is better than weakness, so please don't let your muscles atrophy at the cost of losing "weight." The stronger our clients get - especially the female clients - the leaner they tend to be or end up (when they are eating right and sleeping well). And by eating right, remember that caloric restriction is an unnecessary stress on the body (stress = cortisol = keeping you soft).

Eat when you're hungry and stop when you're full. If your caloric intake drops by accident, it's okay. At least you're listening to your body's signals. Listening to your body seems to be a lost concept by many, but that's a whole other topic.

I would like to use Deb as an example. Deb is one of our clients who transformed her body and STAYED THE SAME WEIGHT.

This is why the scale can be your enemy. Her heavy lifts as of 12/30/2011: Back squat - 195lbs, Deadlift - 245lbs, Bench Press - 117.5lbs, and Shoulder Press - 85lbs. And she can do a strict chin-up with 35lbs around her waist.

We all start somewhere, and she had to work on her squat with no weight for 2 weeks before she could put a load on her back. She is 2 years in the making. She started at 50 and transformed into a terror in the gym by 52. Last time I checked, 2 years is longer than 1 month at a local fitness club. Have patience. Have goals. And let the body composition changes happen by accident

Lastly, I would like to say that the people who work at well-known gyms are there to sell you a membership. When you stop going, you continue to pay out of guilt of cancelling and you will talk yourself into keeping it thinking you'll eventually use it again. If having the membership isn't motivating enough, why keep it? Save the money. Let's say that you would be willing to pay $40.00 a month for a gym membership that you didn't use for two years. 24 multiplied by $40.00 is $960.00. Even one year of not using your membership is $480.00 that you would save.

We sell personal training packages at 12 sessions for $600.00. You want to workout for a month and not have it cost you as much as two years of a gym membership that you don't use, come see me. Just be warned, you might fall in love with me and everyone at CPC, along with the changes you will make.

Or you could try out Everyday Paleo Lifestyle and Fitness for an extra $20.00 a month for six months. Not only would you have a whole community to support you, you'd have an online personal trainer who designs the workouts for you. Plus mobility work. Six months at $60.00 a month (gym plus EPLifeFit) is $360.00. A much smaller price to pay if you slowly fall back into old habits.

Jeromie

Previously Deleted

2011-12-08T15:01:00.000-08:00

As I started to develop new ideas and open new doors, my blog has evolved. And in the process, I've deleted many posts; posts that I wish I could bring back to demonstrate my growth while acting as a reference to a certain point in my life.

Even though I can't magically bring them back, I can take what I do have and make a new post with that material. For example, on November 19th, 2010 (my mom's birthday) I wrote in a small notebook: "You're drifting away and I can feel it. You've left an incredible impression on me, thank you. You'll always be in my heart. Let your life's journey be joyous and safe. Goodnight & goodbye. J."

If you read my blog you know that just before Thanksgiving of 2010 Kristin told me she wanted space and wanted to live separately. But my heart knew better; my heart knew we were going to be over for good. December 5th we moved into separate places and December 11th we were over for good.

November 21st, two days after I wrote those brief sentences in my notebook, I opened up a word document and wrote as if what my gut was telling me was true (and it was, I just didn't know for certain). I wrote a blog post that included that document a long while back, but deleted it. What I didn't delete was that word document.

Here it is, copied and pasted.

" November 21st, 2010
Kristin,
I guess this means goodbye. Separation seemed to be the first step in moving forward in your life; forward without me. You want more than you expect you will get out of me: financially and emotionally.

You are an awesome person. I love you with all of my heart. You have been nothing but generous and caring and loving and I want you to know that those things haven’t gone unnoticed or unappreciated.

After all of the things we’ve talked about, I can understand your frustrations and I can understand why you think there is someone out there that is better for you. I would probably feel the same way if the situation were reversed.

We’ve had a lot of life together. Those memories will live in me forever. I will never forget you.

I hope your journey leads you to all of the places that you desire to go and to see all of the places that you desire to see.

I hope you meet someone that makes you happy and who will satisfy all of your needs. I hope they have more in common, as well.

Live out your full potential.

Change the world.

But please don’t forget me. I hope there are things you will remember and cherish about me and I hope that those things will make you smile when you need them to the most.

This is the hardest thing I’ve ever had to write, but I want you to find happiness. And I don’t think you’re truly happy with me.

You’re more of a free spirit than me. Just remember to be safe on your journey(s).

Life awaits.

I love you with all of my heart,

Jeromie A******** P****.

Song of the situation: “Almost Lover” – A Fine Frenzy"

I wanted to make this public again because it makes me feel better. And I don't really care what anyone else thinks. December 2010 - July 2011 was an emotional roller coaster ride for me and I always feel better when I can embrace that, let it out, and move forward.

I am truly grateful for everyone who's impacted my life. To those who aren't in my life, thank you. To those who are still in my life, thank you. Without your impact and influence, I wouldn't be who I am today.

I love you all.

Jeromie

Social Media

2011-12-08T09:50:00.000-08:00

Human behavior is funny. It's fun to think about, analyze, and interpret.

I would consider myself a boring person. I am amused by saying or doing things just for the "shock-and-awe" effect, I say things that bring smiles, I can be selfish, but I can also put others' needs before my own.

Overall, I would consider myself a person who cares. When it comes to social media such as Facebook and Twitter, I find myself confused at times.

The biggest confusion comes from Twitter. I say the most random and (in my mind) boring things, with the occasional quote or article, and I don't know what people would find so interesting about me. I have ~130 followers, and I would say a good 100 of them I don't know personally. Possibly more.

Is this supposed to confuse me so much?

Facebook is a little different, and I really enjoy staying in touch with friends and family who are out of state/I don't see often, but I can't handle all of the negative comments. I swear people do it for attention and it is the lamest thing ever.

Yet, I find myself always checking up on the latest status updates or what interesting things are happening on my timeline. Maybe my behavior is like those of my followers: filtering through the nonsense waiting for something to stand out and spark curiosity. Whether it's replying to a post/tweet or reading the latest article or blog post.

I may not ever understand why people would follow me, of all people, but I do enjoy the mindless (and occasionally mindful) escape that is social media.

Jeromie

One year later

2011-12-04T20:45:00.000-08:00

December 5th, 2010 I woke up next to Kristin in our apartment during the last month of our lease. I went into the kitchen and helped her box up many of the kitchen items, as well as some of the little things that weren't boxed up yet.

I also loaded up my Honda for the third and final time. At about 11:30am, the moving company arrived to move Kristin to her new apartment.

I got into my car and drove away.

I found a house with a room for rent that was minutes away from my job. I unloaded my car and emptied boxes in my attempt to settle in. Kristin said she wanted space and wanted to live separately, so that's where my life had taken me on the day mentioned. Six days later she said she didn't want to be with me anymore.

Well, here I am. One year later. I've had to stop in the midst of writing this to sit on the edge of my bed and breakdown. Then I did what I always do when I am down, and pick myself back up.

I am still single, although I have had a couple of young women spark some serious interest, but neither of them lasted more than 6 weeks. I will make it known that they left a lasting impression, and I hope they're well and as happy as possible.

It's painful to open up to someone only to have that person walk away. Thus far, I am 4/4.

But I have learned a lot in the process. I have learned what qualities I enjoy; I learned that I like a gym rat who eats weird like me; and I learned that I walk away quite easily. The last two young women I opened up to had another interest come into their lives and I won't compete.

I will walk away every time.

If I wasn't enough to solely focus on and pursue, I will move forward without you. And I will continue to do what I do best: be generous, be caring, be kind, be loving, be motivating, be honest, be loyal, be passionate, be funny, and give it to you straight.

Maybe the 5th young lady will be the charm.

Jeromie

Financial awareness

2011-11-20T17:58:00.000-08:00

I've made a lot of poor decisions in my life. Poor decisions come with great benefit: the learning experience. But I wish I could rewind my life and change some of those choices. Granted, I wouldn't be who I am today if it weren't for many of the decisions I've made, but I am speaking more along the lines of financial decisions.

To put it bluntly, I've spent plenty of money on stupid shit. The biggest regret is all of the cover charges, drinks, and travel costs to participate in the night life; Missoula, Eugene, Chico, Redding, Spokane, Las Vegas, Salt Lake City, and all over the Portland-metro area. But what sparked my thoughts on this subject was an acquaintance purchasing a new car.

This is red door fury. I will have her until she falls apart.

I've had a few cars over the last 8+ years and it wasn't until the beginning of 2011 that I finally paid off my most recent car, my civic pictured above. I think about all of the dollars that were given to the car dealership and loan company and I cringe. I think about how many months that extra $250.00+ would've been nice to have and how much I could've saved at this point in my life had I put that into a savings instead of into the hands of the loan company(ies).

Think about this: I know a few people who've financed a new car. The car payment was said to be somewhere around $400.00 (yeah, I know) and the payment plan is 5-6 years or 60-72 months. So, over a twelve month period, you mean to tell me there won't be a month where an extra $400.00 won't be nice? Now imagine how nice $400.00 a month would be over a 6 year period.

My car is finally paid off and the LAST thing that is on my mind is a new car and a new payment with new debt; I don't care if my door is red and the rest of my car isn't. If your car is paid off and it works, wouldn't it make more sense to save that $400.00 a month? Let's say you need to repair it and it costs about $400.00. So, one month you pay to fix the car and you have the other 11 months with an extra $400.00 in your pocket.

I grew up in a low-income household and I've spent many months living paycheck to paycheck. I continue to live paycheck to paycheck. And I am so thankful I've learned this lesson. If it isn't necessary, save the money. Times are tough for everyone, those extra few hundred bucks a month would benefit most everyone; everyone I know, at least.

All I am asking is to really think out the decision to walk away from a car dealership in debt for the next 5-6 years making monthly payments that would be nicer to have in the checking account. I only ask because I care.

Jeromie

Happy Birthday Kalen

2011-11-16T05:05:00.000-08:00

November 16th is a big day. A great day.

November 16th is the birthday of my best friend Kalen. And this year, he'll be 27-years-young.

I have known Kalen for over 10 years. He is the best friend a person could ask for. He has the best sense of humor, he is intelligent, he is outgoing, he is loyal, he is honest, he is genuine, he is straightforward, and he is a very caring human being.

Time has only made our friendship blossom.

I would go months without talking to him and he would call me up and our conversations were as if no time had passed. Some of the best nights of my life had Kalen alongside for the ride. Yet, he was there for me when I needed a shoulder the most. And he called regularly to make sure I was okay.

He once told me this, and it has stood out to me ever since: "Ordinary people are predictable."

Keep being extraordinary, my friend.

I look forward to the next 27+ years.

I love you, bro.

Jeromie

Who would've thought?

2011-11-14T10:58:00.000-08:00

I've had the last few years on my mind, as of late.

My party days were overwhelming and I was coming to the point where I needed to take a step back from the crowd I was surrounding myself and shift my focus back on school. I met with my adviser and worked through 5 straight quarters: spring, summer, fall, winter, spring.

My senior capstone was done at a summer camp for adolescents and adults with disabilities and it was one of the most gratifying experiences. After finishing up my two weeks, I went to Adorn Body Art and had "Sacrifice" tattooed on the inside of my right arm. Hence the URL name.

Winter quarter was probably the most difficult of my undergrad quarters. My first 4 years of education were done online or at a community college and my grades reflected my lack of application. I finished my last 5 quarters strong; sprinting to the finish line so-to-speak.

I was grateful to find Clackamas Physical Conditioning (it went by a different name at the time) during my last two quarters. I learned more than any class could teach, and when the decision was made to move to Utah, I was bummed that I had to leave the community I grew to love so much. I consider CPC a second home.

The move to Utah went well, but it took a bit for me to find work and the work I found didn't provide nearly enough. I ended up finding a second, then third, part-time job. During this time I was slowly getting settled in and making friends. I was finding fun places to eat, fun things to do, and finding a routine. And I was starting to obsess with the concepts of "Paleo".

Moab - January 2010

I also learned that, even though I haven't been to many places, Moab is my current fav. Who knew a bunch of rocks would excite me so much. I want to visit again soon, and I wouldn't have visited if it weren't for the girl I was dating at the time. I would like to take a moment to say something about her and our relationship. She provided the majority of financial support during our time together in Utah. I did things I would've never done if it weren't for her. I also learned a lot from her. She played a major role in my life for many years, so the person I've grown to be is partially because of what I learned and experienced with her. Thank you.

When she decided she wanted to leave me, I was devastated. I only had a few weeks left in my first semester of grad school. I finished the semester strong (3.425 gpa), but the next semester I fell apart. I was an emotional wreck. I spent a lot of my time in my room alone with the lights off, just laying in bed. Sometimes with the TV on, sometimes with music playing, but often times just me and my thoughts.

I am thankful for the support I was given when my ex walked away. Clients, classmates, and acquaintances came out of the woodwork to offer a helping hand. Even if it were just a shoulder to lean on. I had friends and family who were back in the northwest call me often to make sure I was keeping my head up. I learned a lot about myself and the relationship that had just ended. It was important to me to end things maturely, and I am glad that my ex and I can be civil and friendly.

There were two situations that made me feel like a weight was lifted off of my shoulders. They occurred during the last few months that I was in Utah. First, I knew that my ex and I weren't meant for one-another. The more I talked with friends and family, the more I realized how different we were and how we kept trying and failing over the last 9 years. And that insanity needed to stop. Second, when I received the phone call from the owner of CPC letting me know business is growing and he could use me. I knew it was time to move back and nothing had ever felt like more of a relief than the decision to move back to Oregon.

It has been wonderful to live so close to my siblings and my best friend. I have been able to get back in touch with many friends and develop new friendships with the clients at CPC.

I'll be moving to Clackamas in a couple weeks. Business is going well, and some big projects are about to launch. I look forward for what's in store in my future and I look forward to helping thousands of people change their lives utilizing the services we provide.

One person at a time.

Jeromie

Being Thankful

2011-11-13T09:28:00.001-08:00

I didn't realize that Twitter would be such a convenient resource for all kinds of information until I started 'following' people in the health and fitness community.

One of the fitness gurus I follow posted this a while back:

"Be thankful for what you have; you'll end up having more. If you concentrate on what you don't have, you'll never, ever have enough."

I read that quote again this morning and it made me think, so I wanted to share my thoughts.

It has been the decisions, mistakes, people, and wisdom of my elders that has led me to where I am now.

I am thankful for the people whom I look up to. I wanted to make you all proud, and in return, you taught me how to be proud of myself.

I am thankful for failure. Without the downs, there would be no ups. Without pain, there would be no joy. You need rain and sunshine to make a rainbow. If I didn't make mistakes and if I didn't fail, I wouldn't be who I am now. And I kind of like who I've become. I think many of friends, family, and acquaintances would agree.

I am thankful that I found my passion. It was an emotionally painful time in my life and a lifestyle change sparked a light-bulb: I want to help other people make the necessary changes to increase their self-esteem and self-efficacy. And I use health and fitness as the foundation. Eating better, performing better, and feeling better will lead to the mental and physical changes that I discovered many years ago.

I am thankful for the wisdom of my elders and peers. If I asked questions, you answered. If I was down, your words helped pick me up. Every time I needed you, you were a shoulder. More importantly, every time I thought I DIDN'T need you, you gave me your two cents. I always listened. Thank you for supporting me and sticking a boot in my ass when it was necessary.

My success has only just begun.

Jeromie

It's easy to give up

2011-11-13T09:25:00.001-08:00

It truly is.

Today, I decided to workout with the 10am class. It started with a shoulder press 1RM. The group class performed 120 squats, 90 double unders, 60 kettlebell swings, and 30 burpees. No timer, thankfully.

My previous 1RM was 185lbs and I was able to get up 195lbs today. Failed at 200lbs. For the group class, I decided to slap on the 40lbs vest we have hiding in the back room. And if that wasn't enough, I use the 2 pood kettlebell for swings instead of 1.5.

My PR for double unders is 125 unbroken, so I decided to get those out of the way first. I got 88 before hitting my feet. Not bad for a man wearing a 40lbs vest! I also decided to set up a box and do box squats instead of just air squats.

At the half way point of my squats, burpees, and swings, I wanted to take the vest off. The swings were getting heavy, the burpees absolutely sucked, and I was doing sets of 10 with the box squats. I was wiped. But I told myself I wouldn't stop and I told myself I would finish before the class ended.

And I did.

I've come to realize that perception is a hell of a thing. It's easy to walk away from a challenge because you're scared or frustrated or lack any confidence. It's easy to give up on a task or to give up on yourself in the face of a little adversity.

And the only person who thinks you can't do it is you.

Everyone else in the room is cheering for you, rooting you on. Once you can find a way to make manageable whatever task is at hand, you'll find yourself taking on greater and bigger challenges.

Finding comfort in being uncomfortable is the best way to really get the most out of life and life's experiences.

Take risks and never doubt yourself or your abilities.

Jeromie

A moment of gratitude

2011-11-13T09:22:00.001-08:00

This is a photo from my back porch. Many people live here or move because of the outdoor activities such as: snowboarding, skiing, hiking, biking, camping, and/or running. And there are approximately 100 more days of sunshine than the northwest. But, to me, Utah is not home.

Life is funny. I moved to Utah with a plan and that plan evolved into something drastically different, but where I wanted it to go all along. I knew that I needed to give it some time before Clackamas Physical Conditioning grew enough to bring me on as a trainer.

But moving away brings about a sadness within me. It's only natural when you've developed relationships you don't want to leave. I intend on visiting annually, but I cannot believe how many kind and generous people have come into my life here in Salt Lake City. There is nothing fake about their big hearts, either. I don't attract fake people and I am truly grateful for them and wanted to take an opportunity to say thank you.

Mary, Jorge, and Thomas: Mary and Jorge let Kristin and me stay at their place for over a month until we found jobs and an apartment of our own. Their son, Thomas, was always fun to pick on and I hope he developed a little toughness because of that. Mary is currently going through chemo for two kinds of cancer (one more session left!) and so far so good. I've taken her dinner 3 times and have really enjoyed our conversations. She wished me bounty in my journey back to Oregon and was fully supportive of my decision. She's wonderful and I hope she doesn't run into anymore bumps in the road with her health.

Jocelyn, Brian, Jenna, Jackson, and Sierra: You're my family and I've enjoyed the memories we've made in the last two years. Great meals, great company, great conversation. I truly wish you lived in Oregon during my childhood because I would've enjoyed having you around during my upbringing. Positive role models are important for children. I know that all families have their drama, but I think my family could've also benefited from having you guys nearby. Especially for my mom to have her sister close. I love you all.

Seth, Tavia, and family: As the only two males in our cohort for grad school, I am sorry I'm leaving you all alone. But the two families that had the biggest impact on me during my bumps in the road were my aunt and uncle (above) and you guys. Holy crap have you guys been generous and caring and just awesome people to have in my life. It's hard to meet genuine people these days and you definitely fit in that category. We have slightly different political, spiritual, even nutritional ideals, yet we know that it is of opinion and love each others' similarities and differences. And can hang out without trying to force entertainment; we just enjoy the company.

Tina & Jonathan: You came to my rescue when I was in need and I can't thank you enough. And Tina, when it came to studying for school you always tried to get together. No one else in the cohort did that. And you always took me to the airport so I could go home and visit the people who mean so much to me. Thank you so much for everything.

Molly: I admit that of everyone in our cohort, I was a little more judgmental toward you because you are vegan. But when we worked together at PEAK and exchanged emails with each other, I got to know how awesome you are. You invited me running, you invited me out to get-togethers, you invited me camping, and said that you were down for going out for drinks if you were available. If you can't tell, that meant a lot to me and I wanted to say thank you. And say I'm sorry for judging you.

The rest of the cohort: I wish you the best and hope you succeed in your endeavors.

Heidi H.: I didn't know that the one trainer I would end up being good friends with would be you, but I am glad it was. I appreciate your normalcy and the fact I can actually relate to you. It's probably due to the fact that we're both not from Utah. Ha! The hikes, the conversations, the passion for fitness, going out for drinks, it was always a good time. Thank you for being so damn chill.

Kai, Nichole, Robert, Winston, and Heidi: Holy memories. Wendover is such a shithole, yet I had so much fun with you guys. I don't know if I've ever laughed that hard the entire two years I've been in Utah. We are retarded! We definitely know how to have fun. Thank you for letting me into your circle. I look forward to seeing you all when I visit.

My MountainLand Rehabilitation folks: You guys were a lot of fun and showed me what it's like to really care for other peoples' well-being. Lydia: You're a rockstar. I could literally talk to you for hours. You are awesome and thank you for joining me at the farmer's market. Art: Thank you for the letter of recommendation for grad school and thank you for showing me Mill Creek for the first time. You're a stud and I wish you the best. Angie: When you let yourself out of your shell, you are a riot. I loved our conversations and loved it when your sarcasm would catch me off guard. I wish everyone the best.

Jason and Tara: Add two more to the genuine list. Jason, I really do appreciate the kinds words you gave me when things didn't work out at SLC Crossfit. I feel like I've learned a lot about training just by showing up to the gym and watching you. Just like Mary told me, I truly believe that you two deserve bounty for your generosity and hard work and I hope the best for both of you. I look forward to seeing you when I visit.

Finally, my clients: There are so many of you who have really given me great insight and advice and have been very generous. You didn't have to do anything for me except let me train you, but we developed great relationships and I hope to stay in touch. There's: Christina, Lynda, John, Brady, Jill, Fred, Barbi, Danyel, Lindsay, Lori, Jo, Cindy, Ron, Ron, Lawrence, and on and on. And I can't forget my fellow trainers and work colleagues: Jacob, Shannon, Ali, Mike, and Forrest. I appreciate our conversations, your dedication, and thank you for listening to me blab on in-between and after sessions when I was out of the house and actually socializing with real people. A big thank you for helping my mental state during the longest 6 months of my life.

You all mean a lot to me and I wanted to take a moment to show some gratitude for what you've all done. There are times when I feel like I don't deserve all that you've given me, but I hope to pay it forward some day to help someone just like you all have helped me.

Thank you.

Jeromie